President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday, where he proposed that the United States take control of the Gaza Strip and redevelop the war-torn territory.
During a press conference following their meeting, Trump suggested that the U.S. could relocate approximately 1.8 million Palestinians and completely rebuild the Gaza Strip. He envisioned transforming it into the “Riviera of the Middle East” under American administration.
“We’ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site,” Trump stated while Netanyahu observed. “Level the site, and get rid of the destroyed buildings. Level it out, create an economic development.”
Netanyahu was the first foreign leader to visit Trump since he took office last month. Trump underscored their close alliance, describing the relationship between their countries as “unbreakable.”
Trump’s remarks align with his previous calls for neighboring countries to absorb Palestinians displaced by the war between Israel and Hamas. He has specifically pointed to Egypt and Jordan as potential hosts, though both countries have firmly rejected the idea. However, Trump expressed confidence that they would ultimately comply.
Trump did not specify how the U.S. might assume control of Gaza but did not rule out deploying American troops to assist in reconstruction efforts. He also announced plans to visit Israel and Gaza.
When Netanyahu took the podium, he commended Trump’s dedication to Israel. Addressing Trump’s idea for Gaza, Netanyahu remarked, “I think it’s something that could change history. And I think it’s worthwhile really pursuing.”
The meeting occurred as Israel and Hamas continue negotiations over the second phase of a ceasefire agreement. The first phase centered on the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees.
Trump administration officials stressed the importance of fully implementing Phase 1 to ensure the safe return of all hostages, including those who have died. They explained that Phase 2 would aim to conclude the war and secure the release of all remaining Israeli captives in Gaza.
However, Trump’s envoy cautioned that Phase 3—rebuilding Gaza—would present significant challenges. He described the idea of reconstruction within five years as “physically impossible,” estimating that it would require a timeline of 10 to 15 years due to the extensive devastation caused by the conflict.
Trump also expressed skepticism about the durability of the ceasefire.
“I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold,” he admitted to reporters in the Oval Office on Monday.
When questioned about his vision for a U.S.-led Gaza redevelopment, Trump responded, “I envision the world people living there. The world’s people. I think you’ll make that into an international, unbelievable place.”
He also acknowledged that Palestinians would continue to inhabit the territory.
“You have to learn from history. History is – you just can’t let it keep repeating itself. We have an opportunity to do something that could be phenomenal,” Trump stated.
As part of his broader Middle East strategy, Trump signed two executive orders on Tuesday. The first order intensified pressure on Iran, a decision he admitted was difficult.
“I’m signing this and I’m unhappy to do it, but I have not so much choice because we have to be strong and firm,” he said, emphasizing his hope that the measure would not have to be enforced.
“To me, it’s very simple. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump added, asserting the U.S. authority to block the sale of Iranian oil to other nations.
The second order withdrew the U.S. from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and terminated funding for the United Nations Relief Works Agency (UNRWA), which primarily assists Palestinian refugees.
Both Democrats and Republicans have criticized the UNHRC, accusing it of bias against Israel.
Additionally, the order included a consideration to withdraw from UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.